
Joraku-ji Temple
Discover Joraku-ji Temple, a serene Shiga gem featuring magnificent thatched roofs and an Important Cultural Property pagoda.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds

Joraku-ji Temple
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Joraku-ji Temple, a serene Shiga gem featuring magnificent thatched roofs and an Important Cultural Property pagoda.
"The thatched roofs of the main hall and attached priests' quarters are magnificent."

Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of hills and stairs! Be prepared for some climbing to explore the temple grounds fully. :athletic_shoe:
Combine with Anrakuji
Joraku-ji is a short, pleasant walk from Anrakuji. Perfect for a combined temple visit. :walking:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Thatched Roof Architecture
Main Hall
Marvel at the magnificent thatched roofs of the main hall and attached quarters, showcasing traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

Tahoto Pagoda
Upper grounds
Ascend to the upper grounds to discover the impressive Tahoto Pagoda, an Important Cultural Property.

Mifune no Pine
Temple grounds
Be astonished by the vitality of the Mifune no Pine, a majestic tree with branches spreading widely across the temple grounds.

Autumn Foliage
Throughout the temple
Experience the breathtaking beauty of vibrant autumn leaves framing the temple's historic structures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Navigating the Temple Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of hills and stairs! Be prepared for some climbing to explore the temple grounds fully. :athletic_shoe:
Combine with Anrakuji
Joraku-ji is a short, pleasant walk from Anrakuji. Perfect for a combined temple visit. :walking:
Allow ample time
Take your time to explore and get lost in the beauty of the traditional buildings and scenery. :clock1:
Enjoy the views
Climb the path next to the main hall for great views of the town below and the pagoda. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of hills and stairs! Be prepared for some climbing to explore the temple grounds fully. :athletic_shoe:
Combine with Anrakuji
Joraku-ji is a short, pleasant walk from Anrakuji. Perfect for a combined temple visit. :walking:
Allow ample time
Take your time to explore and get lost in the beauty of the traditional buildings and scenery. :clock1:
Enjoy the views
Climb the path next to the main hall for great views of the town below and the pagoda. :camerawithflash:
Autumn Beauty
The temple is especially stunning during autumn with vibrant red and yellow leaves. :maple_leaf:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Joraku-ji Temple is appreciated for its beautiful traditional architecture, particularly its magnificent thatched roofs and the significant Tahoto Pagoda. Visitors enjoy the serene atmosphere, especially during autumn when the foliage is vibrant. While smaller in scale, it offers a peaceful and worthwhile experience, though be prepared for some hills and stairs.
"A more lowkey temple with thatched roof, only 5-min walk from Anrakuji on a short but pleasant promenade where you can see the town below.
Smaller scale than Anrakuji and Kitamuki Kannon, good for a 15-minute visit."
Ha Luu
"Went by rental car. Beautiful traditional Japanese buildings and shrines. Nice tea houses and restaurants so can spend a day here and can get lost so take your time. Lots of hills and stairs. Worth the visit."
H. S.
"Love that temple"
alessandro baghloul
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Joraku-ji Temple is located in Konan City, Shiga Prefecture. Many visitors arrive by rental car, as there is a parking lot available on the temple grounds. It's also a short, pleasant walk from Anrakuji Temple, making it convenient to visit both.
While specific public transport routes can vary, it's generally recommended to check local bus schedules for Konan City. Rental cars are a popular and convenient option for exploring this region of Shiga Prefecture.
Yes, there is a parking lot located within the temple grounds that can accommodate a fair number of cars.
Absolutely! Joraku-ji Temple is just a 5-minute walk from Anrakuji Temple, along a pleasant promenade with views of the town below.
Shiga Prefecture is accessible by Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto or Maibara Station, followed by local trains. For direct access to temples like Joraku-ji, renting a car is often the most convenient option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Information regarding admission fees is not explicitly detailed in the provided sources. However, many smaller temples in Japan do not charge an entrance fee, or have a small fee for specific buildings. It's advisable to check on-site or local tourism resources for the most current information.
Specific opening hours are not provided. However, temples are generally open during daylight hours. For early morning visits, especially on weekdays, you might find fewer visitors, as noted by one reviewer.
While not explicitly stated, many temples in Japan have free grounds access with optional fees for specific halls or treasures. It's best to confirm upon arrival.
Yes, donations are accepted. One visitor mentioned a positive experience with a request at the donation office, highlighting the temple's accommodating nature, especially during quieter times.
Information on specific events is not available. However, visiting during autumn offers a spectacular display of fall foliage, which is a significant draw.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the magnificent thatched roofs of the main hall, the Important Cultural Property Tahoto Pagoda, and the impressive Mifune no Pine. The views from the path next to the main hall are also highly recommended.
Yes, it's considered smaller scale than some other temples, making it good for a 15-minute visit if you're short on time. However, you can easily spend longer if you wish to explore more thoroughly.
The temple grounds have several hills and stairs, so comfortable footwear is recommended. It's not excessively tiring, but be prepared for some climbing.
The area around Joraku-ji Temple, and potentially within its vicinity, offers nice tea houses and restaurants, suggesting you can spend a good portion of the day here.
Its magnificent thatched roofs and its connection to Kitamuki Kannon are key features. The vitality of the Mifune no Pine is also a remarkable sight.
📸 📸 Photography
The three-storied pagoda against the backdrop of autumn leaves is a popular shot. The thatched roofs of the main hall and the sprawling Mifune no Pine also make for striking photographs.
Absolutely! The vibrant autumn leaves create a stunning contrast with the traditional temple architecture, making it a prime location for fall photography.
Drone usage is typically restricted at religious sites and cultural properties in Japan to preserve the atmosphere and prevent disturbance. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Early morning light can be beautiful for capturing the temple's serene atmosphere without crowds. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide warm, flattering light.
Always be respectful when taking photos. Avoid photographing individuals without their consent and be mindful of any areas where photography might be restricted, such as inside certain halls.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday morning to ensure a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds. The proximity to Anrakuji Temple also makes it easy to combine visits, potentially breaking up the day for younger children. Pack snacks and water, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for exploring the temple's varied terrain.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
Take your time to wander through the grounds, admire the thatched roofs, and find a quiet spot to reflect. The short, pleasant walk from Anrakuji Temple also offers a chance for a contemplative stroll. The beauty of the temple, especially during autumn, provides a perfect backdrop for quiet contemplation and appreciation of Japanese aesthetics.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Charm of Joraku-ji
The Tahoto Pagoda is another key architectural highlight. Designated as an Important Cultural Property, this pagoda stands as a testament to the temple's historical significance and artistic merit. Visitors are encouraged to climb the path next to the main hall to get a better view of this impressive structure.
Beyond the main buildings, the Mifune no Pine is a natural wonder within the temple grounds. Its branches spread widely, demonstrating incredible vitality and adding a unique natural element to the temple's landscape. This combination of man-made structures and natural beauty contributes to the temple's overall serene and picturesque atmosphere.
Experiencing Joraku-ji in Autumn
Visitors often describe the experience as beautiful and awe-inspiring, with the three-storied pagoda being a popular subject for photography amidst the fall colors. The natural beauty of the season enhances the tranquil ambiance of the temple, making it an ideal time for a visit for those seeking picturesque landscapes and a peaceful retreat.
While autumn is a peak time for beauty, it can also mean increased visitor numbers. To fully appreciate the serene atmosphere, consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy a more contemplative experience.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit